Qualcomm today unveiled a Java-friendly development platform for its envisioned "Internet of everything," a concept based on the idea that everyday objects can be readable, recognizable, locatable, addressable, and controllable via the Internet. The platform, based on Qualcomm's Gobi QSC6270-Turbo Integrated Chipset, aims to equip developers with a means of quickly building a new generation of highly connected apps and devices.

Qualcomm envisions a host of IOE applications for such purposes as smart home and building automation, in which all devices, from appliances to security systems, can be centrally controlled; asset tracking to enable enterprises, hospitals, factories, and other large organization to track the whereabouts of equipment, patients, vehicles, and more; and health care so that doctors can remotely monitor patient health and users can track the progress of their fitness routines.

According to Qualcomm, the development platform provides an ideal starting point for creating the aforementioned types of cellular-connection solutions. It includes several onboard sensors and indicators, such as an accelerometer, light sensor, and temperature sensor, per Qualcomm. It also supports Java ME Embedded 3.2, enabling developers to write and execute Java apps directly onto the QSC6270-Turbo chip set, which hosts an application environment that offers access to various 3G-modem hardware interfaces and capabilities, according to the company, so developers can do their customizing and optimizing sans additional discreet processors or microcontrollers.

The Java ME 3.2 software release includes several new JSRs (Java Specification Requests) for IoE applications, as well as Device Access and AT Command Pass Through APIs that give developers access to a wealth of chip set IOs and interfaces, such as GPIO, I2C, and SPI.

The platform also features support for cellular coverage for tri-band UMTS/HSDPA (2100/1900/850 MHz), quad-band GSM (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) support, and stand-alone GPS, as well as 2.4GHz Wi-Fi a/b/g/n via a Qualcomm Atheros AR6103 module, according to the company. The AR6103 is Qualcomm's 802.11n Wi-Fi module, released in September 2011.

AT&T is throwing its support behind the platform: Developers in North America will be able to test their products on a live AT&T-owned network in the design and development phases. "AT&T is the first network operator we've worked with in bringing the IOE Dev Platform to market," a Qualcomm spokesperson told InfoWorld. "However, with tri-band UMTS / quad-band GSM support, it is technically open to any developer targeting 3G/UMTS networks."

The IoE development platform is expected to become available to developers in the second quarter of 2013.